In short
- Group joiner tours cost ₱1,500 to ₱2,000.
- Private boats range from ₱3,000 to ₱5,000.
- Expect a per-person environmental and snorkeling fee paid in cash on arrival; amounts change, so carry small peso bills.
In this article
Planning your budget for Balicasag requires knowing the difference between standard boat rates and local fees. Many tour operators quote a base price for transport, leaving environmental taxes and guide fees to be paid on the island. Here is the exact cost breakdown for 2026.
How much are group joiner tours?
Group island-hopping tours cost between ₱1,500 and ₱2,000 per person.
These shared tours depart from Alona Beach in Panglao. They often start as early as 6:00 AM. This schedule allows you to combine the trip with dolphin watching and a stop at Virgin Island Sandbar.
How much is a private boat to Balicasag?
A private boat costs between ₱3,000 and ₱5,000.
Renting a private bangka gives you control over your schedule. The ride takes 30 to 45 minutes from Alona Beach. Prices depend on the boat size and your group capacity.
What are the mandatory environmental fees?
Expect a per-person environmental and snorkeling fee paid in cash on arrival; amounts change, so carry small peso bills.
Local regulations require this payment for all water activities. The fee typically includes the mandatory local paddleboat guide. You cannot snorkel in the designated zones without this guide.
How much does a diving permit cost?
Expect a per-person environmental and snorkeling fee paid in cash on arrival; amounts change, so carry small peso bills.
The island strictly limits diving to 150 divers per day. You can complete a maximum of two dives per day as a certified diver. Dive centers normally handle these permit fees when you book a trip.
Are fees included in online tour packages?
Many online packages bundle the transport, environmental fees, and lunch into one upfront price.
Some comprehensive day tours include the environmental fee, snorkeling gear, and a BBQ lunch. Prices for these packages start from $72.00 on platforms like Viator. Prices change based on the season and availability.
What other expenses should I budget for?
Bring cash in small PHP bills for tips, snacks, or extra gear rental.
There is a small local community of roughly 100 families on the island. You may want to buy snacks or tip your paddleboat guide. Bring your own reusable water bottle to reduce waste.
Questions travellers ask
How do I get to Balicasag Island?
Join an island-hopping tour or rent a private bangka from Alona Beach, Panglao. The boat ride takes 30 to 45 minutes.
What is the Balicasag Island environmental fee?
Expect a per-person environmental and snorkeling fee paid in cash on arrival; amounts change, so carry small peso bills. This usually covers the environmental tax and the mandatory local paddleboat guide for snorkeling.
Are there restaurants or food on Balicasag Island?
Some online tour packages include a freshly prepared BBQ lunch on the island. Otherwise, bring small PHP bills to purchase snacks from the local community.
